Los Angeles alternative rock trio, Timid Nones, have been playing together since 2018. Last year, they released a debut EP entitled Porcelain, reflecting genres such as dream pop and post-punk revival within their varied sound. All four of its songs were recorded at Holloway Productions in Santa Fe Springs, CA. Mixing was done at home with Reaper, and the mastering was done by the studio’s own Eddie Holloway.
I was pleased to read that dynamics are a crucial component of this band’s style, and sure enough, there are plenty of cool dynamic shifts to be heard throughout Porcelain. “Indefinitely,” the first song, is a major highlight of the EP. Beginning with a lively acoustic guitar riff, the tune sports big, brawny snare drums and fuzzy guitar distortion. Between the walls of distortion and the lead singer’s vocals, I couldn’t help but wonder if they are big fans of Silversun Pickups, another dreamy California rock band. The Silversun Pickups similarities, whether intentional or not, continue on “Slipping Away.” Musically, this one is very dynamic and keeps the listener engaged. I particularly like how this cut emphasizes the bass lines a lot in the first few minutes. It makes the crunchy My Bloody Valentine-esque chorus all the more impressive. Indeed, the beauty of this track is that it has such soothing ambience contrasting with noisy dissonance, going from quiet to loud and then back to quiet very effectively. Another major highlight. “4AM” is a bit different from the first two, adopting a swaying rhythm for over six minutes. What sticks out most is not the epic guitar solo that occurs four-and-a-half-minutes in or the infectious chorus melody, but the opening lyrics. Backed by electric and acoustic guitars, the lead singer sings, “There’s a bottle of alcohol / In my glove compartment / And I could not recall who polished it off.” I have a feeling that these lines alone fit in with the song’s title of “4AM,” as they seem to be revolving around early morning intoxication. Last of all is “Tarot Romance.” The guitars and bass here are also reminiscent of Silversun Pickups, but what’s different is this song’s tone. Whereas the three other tracks were calm and composed, this one seems like it’s pissed off. The vocals here are more like angry shouting than melodic singing. I don’t think it detracts from the song by any means, but at the same time, I get why this may divide some listeners’ opinions. Overall, Timid Nones’ debut EP is one that is filled with all sorts of dynamic shifts and sonic colors. I thought that this was a killer first effort. Give Porcelain a listen and hear for yourself! Recommended.
0 Comments
Your comment will be posted after it is approved.
Leave a Reply. |
Critique/insightWe are dedicated to informing the public about the different types of independent music that is available for your listening pleasure as well as giving the artist a professional critique from a seasoned music geek. We critique a wide variety of niche genres like experimental, IDM, electronic, ambient, shoegaze and much more.
Are you one of our faithful visitors who enjoys our website? Like us on Facebook
Archives
May 2024
|